El-Rufai Queries NSA Over Import of Deadly, Odourless Toxin

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has written to Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, seeking urgent clarification over reports that the Office of the National Security Adviser imported approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic chemical compound.

In a post on X on Sunday, Mr El-Rufai shared the letter, dated 30 January 2026, in which he described the substance as “a very dangerous toxin”. He added: “It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one.”

Thallium sulphate is a colourless, odourless and tasteless compound that was once used as a rodenticide but has been banned in many countries since the 1970s because of its extreme toxicity to humans. It can be absorbed through the skin, by inhalation or ingestion, and attacks the nervous system, potentially causing severe nerve damage, organ failure and death in tiny amounts.

Mr El-Rufai, now a leading opposition figure with the African Democratic Congress, said he was acting “as a concerned citizen” and in fulfilment of his civic duty. He noted that the information about the procurement had reached opposition leaders, who understood it involved a supplier in Poland.

In the letter, he asked the NSA to provide reassurance on:

the intended purpose and end-use of the thallium sulphate;
the identity of the supplier and whether the importation was properly authorised;
the exact quantity, form and concentration of the material;
storage and security arrangements once it arrives in Nigeria;
coordination with NAFDAC, the NCDC and other public-health agencies;
any risk assessments or hazard mitigation plans prepared in advance.

He stressed that thallium salts are “highly toxic and tightly controlled substances” and that full transparency was essential for public safety and democratic accountability.

The development has triggered widespread comment on social media, with some users commending Mr El-Rufai for raising the issue, while others voiced alarm at the prospect of such a substance being handled by a government office. No response from the Office of the National Security Adviser had been received as of Sunday afternoon.

The letter is the latest example of the former governor publicly challenging aspects of national security policy under the current administration. Further details are expected once the NSA’s office replies.